The Thorne-Sagendorph Art Gallery recently opened its doors back up with a slew of new works from students and staff alike.
The gallery’s spring 2026 opening reception was held on Thursday, Feb. 5, at 4 p.m.
The Thorne is currently showcasing “Present & Future Icons” by Paolo Porelli, as well as the 2026 Biennial Art & Design Faculty Exhibition.
“Whether that’s the faculty art or Paolo’s show, being in here and seeing some world-class research from some internationally-known artists is an invaluable thing,” said Miles Warner, art professor and Thorne Gallery director.
Warner said that he particularly enjoys the faculty exhibit, having seen it from both perspectives.
“Being a former student, I remember the impact of being able to see what your professors were working on,” Warner said. “So to me, it’s a really special thing, and now to be back and participating in it, I don’t take that lightly. I really appreciate it and understand it.”
Warner said that the gallery will be continuing its student-driven focus.
“We want to continue to keep the doors here open and have students coming through them and utilizing the space and continuing to broaden that idea again of what art can be, and then using this place as a tool to help them facilitate professional skills that will help them beyond this place,” he said.
Warner shared that he enjoys the task of running the gallery.
“I love the idea of solving the problem of making sure a show looks a certain way, making sure it looks professional, making sure it’s done to the best it could possibly be done,” he said. “It’s this great sense of relief that we’re almost going to be able to showcase this stuff, because it’s a massive undertaking.”
Senior Gianna Bagley, an attendee of the event, said that she came to the opening to get inspiration.
“I’m really curious to see what all the professors have produced,” Bagley said. “And it gives me some inspiration for my final show at the end of the year.”
Bagley said her favorite exhibit was Warner’s sculptures as they were “very fun.”
First-year Heather Ivas also said she enjoyed Warner’s sculptures.
“It’s very him,” she said. “I walked in and I didn’t even have to look at the brochures. I was like, ‘Yeah, that’s Miles’ stuff.’”
According to Warner, the gallery will host a small pop-up exhibit in May.
“That’s going to be all inflatable statues, and we’re going to invite the CDC [Child Development Center] and all the little guys from over there, and they’re going to come over and have a blast,” Warner said.
Warner also said that artists from Maine and Rhode Island are in the works for the fall 2026 semester.
Emily Sloane can be contacted at
esloane@kscequinox.com
